by Angie Pollock

Created on: April 14, 2009

Native to Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan, asafoetida is a tall perennial plant that displays white flowers at the head. This unusual plant produces a gum from the roots that is harvested after the plant reaches maturity (approximately 4 years old). The stems are removed from the plant and are sliced so that the gum will well from the root.

The plant is known for its strong aroma which has earned it another common name, "devil's dung". The smell is sometimes compared to garlic but is more pungent. Many individuals have unknowingly tasted asafoetida as it is a common ingredient found in Worcestershire sauce. An alternative spelling for this plant is "asafetida" and can also be found under the names stinking gum, food of the gods, hing, and narthex.

For centuries, asafoetida has been used in herbal remedies and also in different religious traditions for magic spells. For herbal remedies, asafoetida is used as a tincture or in powder form. This plant can also be found in a yellow-tinted essential oil that is used in place of garlic. Whether cooking with asafoetida or using in herbal medicine, the benefits claimed are numerous.

Colic

An asafoetida tincture acts as a stimulant and reacts with the mucous membranes. Claims are also made that this plant can reduce flatulence which eases stomach pains thus relieving colic.

Cholesterol Levels

We've heard that garlic is good for our body and asafoetida has also shown to reduce high cholesterol. However, the study shown was using high doses of asafoetida and the small amounts found in condiments are not relative enough to show any significant difference.

Repellant

The pungent odor repels insects including flies and mosquitoes. Many have used asafoetida around their yards and gardens to ward off stray dogs, cats, and rabbits. The odor may also repel people so best not be used on a first date.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

The oil from asafoetida is known to calm the stomach and relieve gas pains. Stress and anxiety factors that can contribute to stomach upset may benefit from the calming properties of asafoetida.

During the 19th century, asafoetida was commonly prescribed for several nervous disorders including depression and hysteria. Inhaling of the gum was used to decrease hysteria attacks and it has also been used to regulate mood swings. Sometimes referred to as "hing" or "heeng", it is a common treatment for the relief of toothaches.

In small amounts, the spice produced from the plant does not appear to have any major side effects. However, many herbs and herbal remedies can have ill effects when used incorrectly. The uncooked plant is known to cause nausea and after prolong usage, an individual may experience throat irritation, diarrhea, and a burning sensation when urinating. Women who are pregnant or who are nursing should avoid asafoetida as well as young children. Always consult with your health care provider before starting any herbal treatments and notify your physician when using herbal remedies as some herbs can react with prescription medications.

References:

PRESCRPTION FOR HERBAL HEALING, by Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, copyright 2002.

HANDBOOK OF MEDICINAL HERBS, by James A. Duke, copyright 2002.

http://www.naturalhealthmag.com/health/remedy/3

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